Monder Law Group - News
How to Deal with Allegations of Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence is a real problem in many households across the United States. Domestic violence refers to physical, emotional, psychological, and/or sexual abuse against a spouse, intimate partner, child, or other family member living in the house. Law enforcement takes allegations of domestic violence very seriously, even if there are no obvious signs of physical abuse; threatening and intimidating behavior is enough to file charges. The criminal court does not support dominance in any relationship, which is why the law is inclined to favor the supposed victim.
Even if the allegations of domestic abuse are entirely false, fabricated evidence and testimonies can lead to conviction. If the defendant is man, it can be increasingly difficult to beat charges due to society norms and stereotypes. Real incidents of domestic violence are awfully devastating and disturbing for sufferers, which is why the system is shaped this way for encouraging justice. Unfortunately, many individuals are insensitive towards the cause and use it to their advantage.
Wrongly accusing a partner or spouse of domestic violence is not an uncommon occurrence. It is a tactic frequently used to get an edge in divorce and custody battles. The false victim is often successful at acquiring a larger share in property and gaining sole custody of children. Some individuals are simply vindictive and use such allegations to get back at their partner/spouse for a personal vendetta.
Charges of domestic violence can ruin the defendant’s life by imposing a permanent stigma. Conviction may lead to hefty fines, prolonged jail time, and other civil penalties you do not deserve. The criminal implications will shatter your reputation, cost you your job, disconnect you from family, and deprive you of many opportunities in life. Therefore, if you have been wrongly accused of domestic violence, here’s the right way to deal with it:
1.   Do Not Retaliate
When you learn about false allegations of domestic violence against yourself, you first instinct shall probably be to lash out at the accuser. While the reaction is understandable, it will not help your case. Any attempt to retaliate will be perceived as evidence of violent tendencies or an aggressive personality. You will have to exhibit a calm demeanor and use your right to remain silent. It is best that you distance yourself from the false victim and avoid communicating with them directly.
2.   Respect the Law
If the law prohibits you from contacting your partner/spouse and seeing your family, obey the orders. Abiding by the rules and maintaining respectful behavior will demonstrate sound character and supplement evidence of your innocence. You need to prove that you are not capable of causing any harm to people in your life.
3.   Hire an Attorney
Defying allegations of domestic violence is no easy task, which is why you should not delay the deed of hiring an attorney to represent your case. It is important that you find a local criminal defense attorney who has the skills and experience to navigate you through these treacherous circumstances and reach a favorable outcome. Your attorney will assess the strengths and weaknesses of your case, and devise defense strategies accordingly.
4.   Gather Evidence and Witnesses
You need all the evidence and witnesses you can get to support your case. Calling people among your community, friends, family, and coworkers to testify in your favor shall help. Any documented material that shows your spouse is lying, has motive to undermine you, or is mentally unstable is absolutely valuable. You may also provide solid alibis or persuasive explanations to prove that observed physical abuse was not inflicted by you.
